Microsoft Windows Phone 8 will come equipped with “Wallet hub”

Microsoft on Wednesday announced that all Windows Phone 8 devices will come equipped with a near field communications-based wallet program that will let users add their credit cards, debit cards, loyalty membership cards and more. Microsoft’s Wallet hub will also be compatible with third-party applications for mobile payments and services so users who already have set up payment accounts with other mobile apps can keep them without having to start over. Microsoft says it’s working with several carriers on integrating its wallet program and is expected to have a version of its wallet that’s compatible with the ISIS joint venture created by AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.